Mike Vukovcan Final Score: Imani Christian 28 Hopewell 21.
One of the uglier games that I’ve ever witnessed. I’ll have more later but here are some quick thoughts and key plays.
-The amount of penalties by Imani was staggering. Had to be close to or over 200 yards. Zero discipline. Unofficially Imani had to have been called for 6 or 7 pass interference calls, basically tackling Hopewell wide receivers preventing big plays.
*Update: 19 penalties for 180 yards
-Credit Imani for responding when their star player Gabe Jenkins was injured. Hopewell couldn’t stop their run game all evening but especially in the 2nd half. Thoughts are with Jenkins that his injury isn’t serious.
-Hopewell had trouble protecting James Armstrong all evening. Played without their starting LT. Armstrong couldn’t get in any rhythm as he was forced to scramble most of the game.
-Imani had the better offensive and defensive line, that was difference in the game. Hopewell knew what was coming (direct snap and run up the middle) but they couldn’t stop it.
-Hopewell star WR Avery Bokor was injured in 1st Half and didn’t play entire 2nd Half. Taking away Armstrong’s top target was big.
-Refs blew a call on a would be Hopewell kickoff return for TD. Blew play dead when whistle shouldn’t have blown. Huge play.
Big picture this is just one loss but could have impact in the playoff seedings.
Hopewell has to get healthy and make sure the loss doesn’t define them.  They showed character by hanging tough and responding multiple times against a talented team on the road.
Need to have a short memory, learn from it and get ready for Central Valley.
